PDGA Launches Sponsor a Member Program to Empower Global Disc Golf Growth

As part of its ongoing mission to develop disc golf into a globally recognized competitive sport and recreational activity, the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) is proud to announce the launch of the Sponsor a Member Program. This innovative initiative seeks to empower growth in developing countries by providing amateur players with access to PDGA-sanctioned events, clinics, and equipment.

The program allows PDGA members to sponsor an amateur player's membership for just $20 when joining or renewing their membership. This donation will cover the cost of a one-year PDGA amateur-class membership, which includes benefits such as participation in tournaments, clinics, and access to resources and support.

PDGA International Director Brian Hoeniger believes that this program has the potential to foster the participation and advancement of 500 or more players per year in countries with emerging disc golf communities. By combining the Sponsor a Member Program with other initiatives like the Marco Polo Program, which donates equipment and hosts events worldwide, the PDGA aims to break down barriers to growth and development.

To ensure that sponsorships reach those who need them most, working closely with Country Coordinators and local contacts in countries with emerging disc golf communities will identify beneficiaries based on financial need. The sponsored members will receive a one-year PDGA amateur-class membership, providing them with access to resources, support, and opportunities to improve their skills.

Sponsors can stay informed about the program's impact through regular updates from the PDGA, including the number of memberships distributed and the countries benefiting from sponsorships. Although sponsors cannot currently choose where their sponsorship goes, the plan is to expand this option as the program grows.

To measure success, the PDGA will track the number of sponsorship donations received and memberships distributed through regular reports from the International Director, Country Coordinators, and staff. Sponsorship dollars are pooled into a fund with 100% of funds allocated towards distributing memberships. Any undistributed funds at the end of a membership season will carry over to the next season.

As a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, donations to the PDGA are not tax-deductible. However, sponsors can take pride in knowing that their contributions will directly support the growth and development of disc golf globally. By participating in the Sponsor a Member Program, PDGA members can play a vital role in empowering global growth and promoting access to resources and opportunities for amateur players worldwide.

This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/growing-around-world